UK-based aircraft maintenance and repair organisation 2Excel Engineering has gained approval from the UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) to add CFM LEAP-1A-powered Airbus A320 neo family aircraft to its maintenance organisation approval certificate at its base in Lasham, Hampshire.

The company already holds approvals to perform heavy maintenance checks on several aircraft types, including the Boeing 727, 737 and 757, as well as the Airbus A320 neo family, Beechcraft King Air and Piper PA-31.

CEO Matt Caswell says: “Neo (New Engine Option) is one of many upgrades introduced by Airbus to maintain its A320 product line's position as the world's most advanced and fuel-efficient single aisle aircraft family, bringing with it reduced noise levels as well as upgraded passenger space and comfort.

“We have now welcomed the first ever Airbus 320 family neo aircraft to Lasham, operated by Titan Airways, to commence its C check, and this is a huge moment for the staff involved in making this happen. I would like to thank them all for their hard work and dedication.

“By adding Airbus A320 neo CFM LEAP-1A aircraft to our Part 145 certificate we will have expanded our capabilities, and this allows us to build stronger relationships with both new and existing customers as they modernise their fleets.

“Gaining this approval is also a further proof point of our drive to grow and expand our business and is part of our strategic roadmap to broaden the scope of what we can offer our customers, as well as securing long-term prospects for our company, its employees and the local economy.”

London Stansted airport-based charter airline Titan Airways managing director Alastair Willson adds: “2Excel Engineering has always been a very reliable partner for our Boeing 737 and 757 base maintenance requirements. We are very pleased it now has approval to carry out maintenance on our Airbus A321 neos. This is the first of four A320 family checks we will carry out at 2Excel Engineering this year.”